How to Achieve Keira Knightly's Wedding Style

Get the look of Keira Knightly and James Righton's charming French wedding!

How to Achieve Keira Knightly's Wedding Style

Photo: Elizabeth Messina


English actress Keira Knightley has long been a symbol of glamour and beauty as the face of Chanel and star of a myriad of compelling and romantic films including Atonement, Pride & Prejudice, Pirates of the Caribbean, and most recently, Anna Karenina. The lovely actress recently said “I do” and “oui” to the love of her life during a simple ceremony in the south of France. Her new husband, James Righton, is the keyboardist for British indie rock band, Klaxons. The handsome couple wed in a very private ceremony of only eleven guests at the town hall in Mazan. As husband and wife, James and Keira welcomed additional friends and family to a garden luncheon and an evening party at Keira’s farmhouse in Provence. Sounds like a magical affair intertwined with subtle details, and an overall understated -- but beautiful -- ambiance. Even if your nuptials are stateside, get the look of an intimate French wedding by pairing timeless pieces with a sophisticated floral setting.

Get the Look - Ceremony & Reception: A town hall wedding was the perfect choice for this private couple, but to attain the same intimate gathering in an alternative setting, take notes from their garden luncheon. Instead of marrying at sunset, choose a ceremony time for midday. The bright shining sun and sounds of birds chirping in the distance can create a magical and relaxed spectacle for attendees. Take advantage of spring and summer weather and wed at a garden venue. The lush greenery and blooming flowers create a natural backdrop of beauty allowing the love of the bride and groom to take center stage. Once the sun sets, continue the celebration at an estate or charming venue of choice. Private elegance will create a warm and friendly gathering that guests won’t soon forget.

Get the Look - Groom Gear: James wore a beautifully tailored navy blue suit and a light blue tie. Perhaps he was Keira’s “something blue.” The groom also sported a pair of sunglasses looking effortlessly dashing and appropriate for the setting. To attain this look, the typical black tie fashion should be replaced with hues of navy and light blue fit for springtime. If the ceremony and reception are outdoors, wear a favorite pair of sunglass frames that add instant style and comfort to an otherwise formal ensemble.


From left clockwise: Photograph by Clary Pfeiffer; Ray-Ban Polarized Basic Wayfarer sunglasses $180, Available at Bloomingdale's; Club Blazer Star Sport Jacket $595 by SAND Copenhagen

Get the Look - Bridal Style: Keira wore Chanel, of course. Her short, strapless dress was a whimsical delight made from blush pink tulle. She paired the dress with matching flats and a cropped boucle jacket, designed specifically for her wedding by Creative Director for Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld. She gallivanted happily away from the town hall hand-in-hand with her new husband wearing an antique necklace, chic sunglasses, and a delicate floral headpiece. To accomplish her carefree look, choose an untraditional blush or pink gown, and shorten the dress length or add a cropped jacket. Looking to add chic comfort? Wear an adorable pair of flats that will be pain-free when dancing the night away and match them with the color of the dress or bridal jewelry (in this case, both). Shield eyes from the harsh summer sun by donning a chic pair of cat-eye sunglasses and urge guests to do the same, and add a sweet floral crown for a touch of simple charm.


From left to right: Photograph by Aaron Delesie; Gown by Monique Lhuillier; Salvatore Ferragamo Logo Ballet Flats - Isea Quilted $550, Available at Bloomingdale's; Ray-Ban Cat Eye Wayfarer Sunglasses $150, Available at Bloomingdale's

Opening photographs by Elizabeth Messina